Several people have asked our office over the last month if they could break their lease. Many seem to think that once they give notice they can move out within 30 or 60 days and have no further responsibilities. This is not the case and you will need to read your lease to determine exactly what it says about breaking the terms. You may also need to contact a North Carolina attorney about your rights as a tenant here in North Carolina.
Here is a Quick Summary of What Can Happen If You Decide to Break Your Lease:
1. You are still responsible for the rent and must pay it until a new tenant starts their lease.
2. You are still responsible for carrying all utility costs, maintaining the yard, changing air filters and whatever else your lease stipulates as tenant responsibilities. 
3. You will need to pay for the costs of re-renting the property. This includes advertising costs and any other expenses that the landlord may incur while trying to re-rent your home. Sometimes this cost can be the equivalent of one month’s rent or more.
4. You need to co-operate with showing appointment times and keep your place clean. Remember, the quicker the property rents – the quicker you will be released from your obligations.
If you have any other questions feel free to read the North Carolina Real Estate Commission’s Brochure about Renting Residential Real Estate or contact a North Carolina Attorney.